1997 Governor's Conference on Small Business: final report

1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
OCTOBER 31,1997
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Letter from Chair
I I. Executive Summary
111. Governor's Address
IV. Pre-Conference Survey
V. Issues
VI. Recommendations from Sessions
VII. General Recommendations
VIII. Steering Committee
IX. Sponsors
X. Exhibitors
OFFICE OF THE G O V E R N O R
A R I Z O N A S M A L L B U S I N E S S A D V O C A T E
JANE DEE HULI
GOVERNOR
JACKIE VIEH
DIRECTOR
JOSEPH T. DEAN
ADVOCATE
A7 SMALL BUSINESS
The Honorable Jane Dee Hull
Governor
State of Arizona
Dear Governor Hull:
On behalf of the delegates to the 1997 Governor's Conference on Small Business, I
am pleased to present to you the final report and recommendations from the event.
k you for the opportu-warmly
welcomed by
the small business c eceived from your
nd Senate. The
We look forward
Joseph T. Dean
Chairman
A R I Z O N A D E P A R T M E N T O F C O M M E R C E
3800 NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE SUITE 1650 PHOENIX, AZ 85012 602.280.1476 TDD 602.280.1 301
FAX 602.280.1339 WEB SITE http://www.state.az.us/commerce
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
1221 East Osborn Road Suite 100 Phoenix, Arizona 85014
President and CEO
January 2 1, 1998
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce was a proud sponsor of the 1997 Governor's Conference on
Small Business. Overall, the Conference was an effective means for delivering the concerns of
Arizona's small business owners and operators to the leaders of our state. Before the
Conference, we sent out surveys to various small businesses to learn what they believed were the
most important issues confronting their businesses.
During the Conference, legislators, regulators and small business owners participated in panel
discussions on regulatory reform, quality of life issues, workforce development and taxation.
Those panel discussions produced invaluable recommendations, included in this book, that will
help guide our public policy agenda for the years to come.
The Arizona Chamber understands the unique concerns and perspective of Arizona's small
businesses on cumbersome regulation and on burdensome taxes. We are committed to providing
a better climate for small business development and expansion that will help make Arizona a
better place to live and work.
Sincerely,
Tim Lawless
President and CEO
Phone (602) 248-9172 FAX (602) 265-1262
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The quadrennial Arizona Governor's Conference on Small Business was held on Friday,
October 31, 1997, at the Phoenix Civic Plaza. The conference was attended by small business
owners, representatives of small business organizations, legislators, exhibitors and government
agency representatives.
The goal of the conference was to seek concerns of the small business community which could
be addressed by state government. This was accomplished. However, the overall success of
the conference is questionable.
Unfortunately, the planned final vote to prioritize the lists of concerns from each of the breakout
sessions, did not take place until after 5:00 p.m. Only 33 voting delegates remained to cast
ballots. The results of the votes are in the section titled "General Recommendations."
This lack of representative voting skewed the final prioritization results. Recommendations are
being made to prevent such an eventuality at future conferences.
A pre-conference survey distributed to several thousand small business owners received 628
responses. The results of this survey indicated considerably different concerns. The survey
follows the Governor's Address.
The survey of businesses was used to establish the agenda for the conference. The topics
chosen -taxes, regulatory reform, quality of life and workforce development - reflect the issues
most clearly identified by the survey.
Excellent recommendations have been made for all of these areas. The items listed clearly
reflect small business concerns. The order in which they have been ranked regarding priority,
however, is somewhat invalid.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS
I'd like to begin by congratulating our conferees for their past successes, including the
establishment of the Small Business Advocate office headed by Joe Dean, the Business Health
Insurance Group within AHCCCS, the one-stop small business center at the Arizona Department
of Commerce, and the $50,000 personal property tax exemption. That's a lot of progress, and I
intend to see that it continues.
Small businesses are one of the unsung heroes of our economy. Your happiness is everyone's
happiness. You ask for lower income taxes, you get them. You ask for more property tax
exemptions, you get them. When I was Speaker of the House, you asked for a trained workforce,
so I sponsored the state job training program.
Why is promoting small business so important to me? Because it works.
That's why Arizona recognizes the importance of small business. Arizona has more than 400,000
businesses, 99.5% of which are small, with fewer than 100 employees or under $4 million in
annual revenue.
In fact, 41% of Arizona businesses are women-owned. Of the 200 calls the Arizona Business
Connection gets every day, 60% to 70% are from minorities or women. That's a significant figure,
because the U.S. Small Business Administration tells us that the greatest growth in small
businesses comes from Hispanic women.
We all know that Arizona has been one of the fastest growing, most dynamic economies in the
U.S. over the past 3 decades. After a severe economic recession from 1987 to 1992 that was
concentrated in our real estate and construction industries, Arizona is once again "setting the
pace".
It's tempting to recite a litany of impressive statistics regarding Arizona's performance over the
past few years, but I will resist the temptation and focus instead on the challenges we must
overcome.
Given how depressed Arizona's economy was in the late 80's and early go's, we should be both
grateful and pleased with what we have accomplished since then:
Financial World magazine has rated our state financial position and budgeting practices as 91h
best of the 50 states.
Moody's Investor Services just upgraded our bond rating to A+.
Our combined general fund and budget stabilization fund balances total nearly $900 million.
This is all good news. However, the renewed vigor of the Arizona economy and our strong cash
flow should not obscure some persistent and nagging problems that need our immediate attention.
Although job gains are strong and inflation is low, our per capita income continues to lag well
behind the national average.
Although Arizonans are better educated than the nation as a whole, we are concerned about
the quality of education in our children's classrooms.
Although most Arizonans came here seeking our sun-splashed, wide desert vistas, we find
ourselves facing tough choices related to the quality of life that drew us here in the first place.
So while we should congratulate ourselves for what we have done, we should understand that
despite our recent record of accomplishment, the toughest choices may be immediately ahead.
Now that we have "righted the ship" and laid a firm financial foundation, we must "chart the course"
for our future travels. There are several stubborn problems that have bedeviled state government
and caused concern for our citizens for far too long.
As Governor, my policies will address these chronic problems squarely and forthrightly. I intend to
use my office to bring Arizonans together to:
Build a high quality public education system.
Nurture and attract high paying jobs throughout the state, and
Retain and improve upon the quality of life in Arizona.
While we will continue to cut taxes as we have for 5 straight years under Republican Leadership, I
intend to do so in a way that keeps our tax structure balanced and fair. Generally, I believe that
the base of any tax should be kept broad, so that tax rates can be kept low. Furthermore, we
should keep an eye on neighboring states and make sure that our tax structure is not an
impediment to economic development. Unfortunately, in a number of respects our tax structure is
unbalanced and anti-competitive. However, my tax cut proposal will address these shortcomings.
Capital investment is critical to productivity gains and the creation of high-paying jobs. My tax
policies will encourage, not discourage, investment in new plant and equipment.
Another key ingredient for a robust economy is a high quality and available labor supply. As
Governor:
I intend to refocus our attention on the classrooms of Arizona's public schools, so that new
education dollars reach the classrooms for the benefit of our children.
I will propose an increase in funding for job training and workforce development in order to help
steer our non higher-education-bound high school graduates into well-paying technical or
vocational jobs.
I will also seek to strengthen the links between our university and community college systems
and Arizona industries.
These are significant goals for a new administration. They are also realistic. Arizonans rightfully
expect their state government to provide quality services and to solve the problems that are the
responsibility of the state. Furthermore, Arizonans expect an ethical state government with a high
degree of integrity. I will be addressing these concerns by focusing on reforms that empower state
employees and sufficiently reward them for meritorious work.
In conclusion, while I am pro-business, I do not wish to favor either small or big business at the
expense of the other. I understand each kind of business is unique.
After all, most small businesses dream of becoming a big business someday.
Governor's Conference on Small Business Printed: 111 3198
Advance Survey of Businesses
Surveyed: 990
Responses: 365
Response Rate: 36.87%
Ah!! ATizona Small Business Associalion
Fax Survey 8 Results conducted by ADR International, Inc. Fax Services, August 1997. Phone 602-277-1200.
I. Demographic Information
Percent of Responses
How many people does your
company currently employ?
Which county is your company based?
Apache 0 0.00% Mohave 3 0.82%
Cochise 0 0.00% Navajo 2 0.55%
Coconino 7 1.92% Pina 15 4.11%
Gila 0 0.00% Pinal 4 1.10%
Graham 1 0.27% Santa Cruz 1 0.27%
Greenlee 0 0.00% Yavapai 12 3.29%
La Paz 1 0.27% Yuma 3 0.82%
Maricopa 312 85.48%
II. Small Business Issues
Select the five most important
issues affecting your small
business today.
Percent of Total Selections
Crime 150
Welfare Reform 65
Health Care 233
Population Growth 109
Taxes 289
Environment 117
Government Spending 173
Transportation 124
Regulatory Reform 144
Education 1 28
Electric Utility 46
Deregulation
Total Selections 1578
Ill. Taxes
The 1997 Arizona Legislature
and Governor cut taxes by
over $100 million. If there is to
be another reduction in 1998, which
tax would you prefer to be cut?
Percent of Total Selections
IV. Quality of Life Do you feel Arizona's air is,
365 Total Selections
Clean Somewhat Clean Somewhat Polluted Very Polluted
18 4.93% 75 20.55% 152 41 .64% 120 32.88%
Auto License
Business Personal Prop.
R.E. Commercial Property tax
R.E. Residental Property tax
Corporate Income Tax
Personal Income Tax
Sales Tax
Other
Total Selections 397
Not Sure
0 0.00%
V. Health Care Do you provide Health Insurance for your employees?
362 Total Selections
Yes 259 71.55% No 103 28.45%
VI. Workers' Compensation Would you be in favor of legislation that limits court discretion in
in determining which employee activities are eligible for workers' compensation benefit coverage?
336 Total Selections
Yes 236 70.24% No 100 29.76%
VII. Workforce Development
What is the work readiness of recent potential employees you have interviewed?
361 Total Selections
Satisfactory Adequate Poor Not Applicable
25 6.93% 129 35.73% 170 47.09% 37 10.25%
Would you be willing to have more emphasis placed on skill or vocational training in the community colleges?
352 Total Selections
Yes 307 87.22% No 45 12.78%
Do you currently offer child care benefits to attract and retain employees?
352 Total Selections
Yes 13 3.69% No 339 96.31%
Would you offer child care benefits if your company was given a tax credit?
333 Total Selections
Yes 141 42.34% No 192 57.66%
TAXES
MODERATOR
Tim Lawless
PANELISTS
Sandra Abalos
Marty Alvarez
Rep. Ken Cheuvront
Rep. Dean Cooley
Rep. Lori Daniels
Pat Derdenger
Chris Edmonson
Ira Feldman
Rep. Mike Gardner
Rep. Mike Gleason
Sen. Randall Gnant
Dan Lucas
Kevin McCarthy
Rep. Jean McGrath
Sen. Tom Patterson
Rep. Robin Shaw
Marquetta White
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The Governor and State Legislature of Arizona have based economic strategy on the
philosophy that lower rates of taxation will result in an increasingly vital economy. Arizona's
personal income tax rate has been cut several times during the last few years.
Lowering the personal income tax rate has played a vital role in establishing Arizona's friendly
climate for small business. The vast majority of small businesses in Arizona are sole
proprietorships, partnerships, Subchapter S Corporations and Limited Liability Companies and,
as such, do not have a business income tax.
Governor Hull plans to continue the attack on state taxes. At this conference small business
owners will jointly voice their opinions on where future tax reductions should occur.
If state taxes were to be cut next year, what areas would you prefer to have affected? Would
you like to see further reductions in personal income tax? Or would you prefer cuts in business
personal property tax, real property tax, corporate income tax, transaction privilege (sales) tax
or even auto license fees? Would you like to have a reduction in state spending tied to tax
reductions?
Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to share your views with legislators and other
experts on the critical subject of TAXES.
REGULATORY
REFORM
MODERATOR
Richard Bark
PANELISTS
Mary Lou Bessette
Truman Brandt
Sen. Brenda Burns
Rep. Dean Cooley
Michelle Crank
Rep. Mike Gardner
Knox Kimberley
Rep. Laura Knaperek
Rep. Jean McGrath
Gus Miller
Sen. Tom Patterson
Sen. Gary Richardson
Rep. Christine Weason
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Of all the Arizona Legislature's accomplishments to date, those dealing with regulatory reform
have proven to be among the greatest in significance to the small business owner.
The Taxpayers' Bill of Rights stands out as a major achievement in Arizona. This extraordinary
piece of legislation is recognized as one of the nation's leading programs to assist taxpayers.
The Taxpayers' Bill of Rights clearly defines and protects Arizona residents' general rights as
taxpayers and establishes procedures for dealing with the Department of Revenue regarding
income and other taxes.
Some of the provisions of the legislation are:
creation of the Taxpayer Assistance Office to protect against unfair treatment of taxpayers
publication of private taxpayer rulings 30 days after issue to help prevent over- or under-payment
of taxes due to lack of clarity in tax laws
refinement of a formal appeals process
provision for Taxpayer Assistance Orders which temporarily stop action against a taxpayer
while issues are being investigated
Small business owners benefited significantly from other reform legislation which changed the
way fines and penalties are handled by regulatory agencies. The majority of agencies imposing
the fines and penalties no longer receive the resulting payments; instead, monies are credited
to the state's general fund. In addition, the hearing officers who preside over most regulatory
cases now report to a centralized office rather than to the agencies themselves.
This year's conferees will continue to identify and weigh regulatory practices which
impact the small business owner, seeking to reduce burdensome regulations and
practices while maintaining an exemplary business environment.
QUALITY
OF
LIFE
MODERATOR
Jim Apperson
PANELISTS
Rep. Dean Cooley
Sen. Chris Cummiskey
R. George Dean
Sen. Randall Gnant
Margaret Dunn Hodge
Rep. Marilyn Jarrett
Rep. Jean McGrath
Marc Osborn
Sen. David Peterson
Sandra Rembrandt
Frank Rivera
George Russell
Fran Smith
Christine Gibbs Springer
Melissa Taylor
Rep. Christine Weason
Greg Workman
Nancy Wrona
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Arizona's escalating growth rate is clear evidence of its outstanding quality of life. There are,
however, areas which would benefit by improvement.
As residents, small business owners have a deep concern for the well-being of our community.
During the Quality of Life session, we will prioritize those concerns. The Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality is not only a regulatory body, but also a partner in the progress of our
state. In working together with ADEQ we can establish manageable policies which maintain
the optimum balance of industry and environmental integrity.
ADEQ, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), and the Legislature will partner again
this year to continue their efforts to improve air quality in Metro Phoenix. All three pollutants -
particulates, carbon monoxide and ozone - will continue to be addressed in an ongoing effort to
upgrade Maricopa County's air quality to federal Clean Air Act Standards.
Cleanup and leakage control of underground storage tanks present significant financial
problems. The State Assurance Fund was created to assist with these costs. Systems are
currently being researched to improve the manner in which claims are processed and financed,
and to create reasonable oversight mechanisms.
Better systems for transportation are being investigated.. The State of Arizona's landscape is
highly diverse. A few of its metropolitan areas, particularly the immense Phoenix metro area,
suffer from excessive congestion in rush hour. Can this be eased utilizing the systems in
progress or are alternatives required? A discussion of Arizona's options for traffic relief will
explore how transportation issues affect small business.
The crime factor is a cause for worry, ranging from minor issues to violent crime Although
violent crime remains the greater concern as a whole, such issues as graffiti are becoming
more and more difficult for the small business owner to deal with. Methods for prevention of
this and other forms of vandalism will be explored.
WORKFORCE PANELISTS
DEVELOPMENT C. Diane Bishop
Jim Cox
MODERATOR
Tom Gunn
Sen. Chris Cummiskey
Stan Grossman
Sen. John Huppenthal
Rep. Karen Johnson
Rep. Laura Knaperek
Art Othon
Sen. David Peterson
Patricia Ross
Richard Schulte
Rep. Barry Wong
Harold Wong, Ph.D.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The quality of our workforce is of prime concern to all of Arizona's small business owners.
Those hiring new employees often find very few applicants who are appropriately skilled for
even entry level positions. Is there anything the small business community can do to change
this?
Workforce development has become the object of intense assessment and restructuring. The
recently formed School-to-Work program has been made a division within the Arizona
Department of Commerce, positioning it as an economic development activity. Through this
office the classroom is linked with the ten areas, or clusters, targeted for integrated
development by the Governor's Strategic Partnership for Economic Development (GSPED).
These clusters are:
bioindustry
environmental technology
food, fiber and natural products
high-tech industry
minerals & mining
optics
senior living
software
tourism & experience
transportation & distribution
School-to-Work enables future employees to see the abundance of careers available for both
technically and academically oriented students. Participants in the program observe such
subjects as algebra and physics being applied in the workplace, thereby encouraging a sound
foundation in these and other basic studies. Thus, they are able to learn what is available and
establish educational paths, technical or academic, that will result in real jobs.
Opportunities for the small business owner to take part in School-to-Work programs, such as
shadowing, internships, co-ops, and apprenticeships, will be explored at this informative
session.
In addition to work readiness issues, such vital topics as health care and child care will be
discussed. We will examine employee benefits such as the latest in workers' compensation.
Is a subtle shift of power on the horizon? Will the Industrial Commission have a greater voice in
decisions presently made by the courts?
Hear the experts - voice your opinion - regarding workforce issues.
1 997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM BREAKOUT SESSIONS
These recommendations represent the concerns of those attending the individual
breakout sessions. The findings have been prioritized according to the number of votes
received at the end of each session. Only the top priorities have been listed.
The individual rankings in this list do not necessarily correspond to the rankings of the
General Session, where voters may have assigned issues different priority rankings from
those determined in the breakout sessions.
SESSION 1 TAXES
1. Corporate income taxes should be reduced.
2. Eliminate the business personal property tax.
3. Eliminate property tax as the funding source for education and identify another source.
4. Find solution to school district funding issue.
5. Retirement communities should pay school district taxes.
6. Make collection of taxes and penalties less arbitrary and onerous.
SESSION TWO REGULATORY REFORM
1. The state should conduct a small business equity study to include women, minorities and
small business.
2. Reduce regulatory costs for small business and create a business-friendly compliance
process with an assumption of innocence (procedural safeguards).
3. Equalize benefits and opportunities for small business as compared to those afforded large
businesses.
4. Establish legislation to permit small businesses to have aggregation for determining utility
rates.
5. Place states' rights before federal government mandates.
SESSION THREE QUALITY OF LIFE
1. Institute judicial reform to eliminate frivolous lawsuits.
2. Use the state surplus to develop freeways and transportation systems.
3. Establish public/private partnerships for transportation.
4. Enhance crime prevention efforts.
5. Establish a mechanism to ensure that subcontractors are paid at the same time contractors
are paid by state agencies.
SESSION FOUR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
1. Consolidate the 28 different federal and state grants for "school to work" and job training
into one master pool.
2. Provide funds to support alternative training opportunities such as co-ops, internships from
grade school through community college.
3. Provide incentives directly to small businesses that provide job training opportunities.
4. Provide a directory of available public and private post secondary skill resources.
5. Improve literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
These recommendations are from the General Session. There was not any discussion of
these topics at the General Session; the vote was for prioritization purposes only.
1. The state should conduct a small business equity study to include women, minorities and
small business.
2. Institute judicial reform to eliminate frivolous lawsuits.
3. Corporate income taxes should be reduced.
4. Eliminate the business personal property tax.
5. Provide alternative training opportunities, such as co-ops and apprenticeships from K-3
through community colleges.
6. Establish a mechanism to ensure that subcontractors are paid when general contractors are
paid by state agencies.
7. Reduce regulatory costs for small business and create a business-friendly compliance
process with an assumption of innocence (procedural safeguards).
8. Use the state budget surplus to develop freeways and transportation systems.
9. Equalize benefits and opportunities for small business as compared to those afforded large
businesses.
10. Establish publiclprivate partnerships for public transportation.
11. Provide incentives directly to small businesses that provide job training programs.
12. Establish one locally controlled pool of federal and state funds for job training and
consolidate the various programs.
13. Establish legislation to permit small businesses to have aggregation for determining utility
rates.
14. Retirement communities should pay school district taxes.
15. Place states' rights before federal government's mandates.
16. Improve literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade.
17. Enhance crime prevention efforts.
18. Eliminate taxes for small businesses in the start-up years.
19. Create a mechanism for supporting and reviewing concerns of seniors, including employee
background checks and minimum employment standards.
20. Include social values in school education.
21. Reduce complexity of regulatory language.
22. Provide incentives for telecommuting and establishing of at-home offices.
23. Eliminate property tax as the funding source for education and identify another source.
24. Find solution to school district funding issue.
25. Do very long-range planning with benchmarks and link public and private training programs
to state-identified industry clusters.
26. Resolve conflicts among federal, state, county and city agencies.
27. Make collection of taxes and penalties less arbitrary and onerous.
28. Make all city sales taxes uniform.
29. Fund traffic controls and flow to reduce pollution and time.
30. Enhance residential planning and emphasize infill.
31. Centralize the collection of child-support payments.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
STEERING COMMITTEE
Joseph T. Dean, Chairman Bruce Fox
Arizona Small Business Advocate Fox & Fin Financial
Wayne Anderson
Americare Employers Group
Jim Apperson
Maricopa Community Colleges
Todd Ban kofier
Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
Malcolm Barrett
Flame, Inc.
Mary Lou Bessette
Bessette & Company
Cheryl Boone
Southwest Gas Corporation
Ann Chase
City of Phoenix
Melissa Collins
State Farm Insurance
Sarah A. Cowgill
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Gregg Edgar
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Samantha Fearn
National Federation of Independent
Business
Gail Gessell
U.S. Small Business Administration
Jaime Gibbons
J.G. Appraisers, Brokers & Consultants
LTD
Rick Gonzales
Xerox Corporation
Tom Gunn
Arizona Small Business Association
Peter Hayes
Salt River Project
Kevin J. Healy
Arizona Employers Council Inc.
David R. Hume
Hume & Company
Gordon C. James
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Susan Jones
Drugs Don't Work in Arizona
Eleanore Klein
Today's Arizona Woman Success
Magazine
Valerie Krislibas
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Tim Lawless
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Brian McAnallen
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Pat McCallister
ClGNA Healthcare of Arizona
Midge Munro
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Helen H. Neuharth
Greater Casa Grande
Chamber of Commerce
Farrell Quinlan
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Michelle Pierson
City of Tucson
Dean Rennell
Wells Fargo
Donald E. Ruff
Bank One Arizona, NA
Carl Schmieder
Schmieder & Son, Jewelers
Ginny Sparks
Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona
Bill Stack
US West Communications
Sue Stoll
Lucent Technologies
Patricia A. Vamos
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Wendy Wheeler
Cellular ONE
Michael N. York
AZ Small Business Development Center
Network
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
SPONSORS
1. AmeriCare
2. Arizona Chamber of Commerce
3. Arizona Department of Commerce - Arizona Business Connection
4. Arizona Public Service
5. BankOne
6. BlueCross/BlueShield of Arizona
7. Cellular One
8. CIGNA Healthcare
9. KFNN 151 0 AM Financial Newsradio
10. MicroAge
1 1 .The Business Journal
12. The Tribune
13. Today's Arizona Woman Success Magazine
14.US West
15.XEROX
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
EXHIBITORS
Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality Citywide Cellular
Arizona Department of Revenue CK Event Enterprises
Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Commercial Blueprint
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Computer One Training
Arizona Small Business Association Crisis Preparation and Recovery
Arizona Small Business Development CRM Computer Consulting
Center
Dean Witter
ASU FastTrac: Growing Your Small
Business Disel USA
AzTech Recruitment Company Easel Photography, Inc.
Bank of Arizona Educational Seminars of Scottsdale
Bank One Eglin Photographic Productions
Benefit Logic, Inc. Elan Travel
BLS Communications Environmental Training Center
Blue CrossIBlue Shield of AZ Fiddlesticks
Business Development Finance Corporation Fox & Fin Financial Group, L.C.
Cardservice International Freeway Partners
Cellular ONE Fringe Benefit Consultants, Inc.
ClGNA Healthcare of Arizona Future Trends Technology Mgmt.
City of Phoenix - Community & Economic Gordon C. James Public Relations
Development
Hansen Lightworks Inc.
City of Phoenix - Equal Opportunity Homestead Village
Department
Humdinger Goodies & Treats
City of Phoenix - Phoenix One Stop
Impulse Data
Industry Network Corporation
Insight
Intelligent Solutions
International Counterintelligence Services
Inc.
Jewish News of Greater Phoenix
JSC & Associates
KFNN
LAN Computer Services
Maricopa County Employment & Training
MBI Occupational Healthcare
Mercy Healthcare Group
MERIT Research Services
Merrill Lynch
MicroAge
Mountain Valley Ventures, Inc.
Mutual of New York
NASE
National Center for American Indian
NAW BO
Network Infrastructure Corporation
New York Life
PDS Technical Services
Phillips & Altman Consulting
Phoenix Airport Hilton
Primesource Technologies LLC
Rocket Litho
Sharpe Equipment Leasing
Small Business Consultants Group LTD.
Southwest Financial Planning Corporation
Southwest Gas Corporation
Southwestern Business Financing
Corporation
SRT Administrators, Inc.
S.P.I.E.S.
Teleguia En Espaiiol
The Business Journal
The Prudential
The Tribune
Toback CPA's P.C.
Today's Arizona Woman
Two Feathers Gallery
United Vanguard Homes Inc.
USWest
U.S. Postal Service
Valley Bank of Arizona
Wells Fargo Bank
Worldwide Sales & Marketing
XEROX
Premier Healthcare of Arizona

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1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
OCTOBER 31,1997
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Letter from Chair
I I. Executive Summary
111. Governor's Address
IV. Pre-Conference Survey
V. Issues
VI. Recommendations from Sessions
VII. General Recommendations
VIII. Steering Committee
IX. Sponsors
X. Exhibitors
OFFICE OF THE G O V E R N O R
A R I Z O N A S M A L L B U S I N E S S A D V O C A T E
JANE DEE HULI
GOVERNOR
JACKIE VIEH
DIRECTOR
JOSEPH T. DEAN
ADVOCATE
A7 SMALL BUSINESS
The Honorable Jane Dee Hull
Governor
State of Arizona
Dear Governor Hull:
On behalf of the delegates to the 1997 Governor's Conference on Small Business, I
am pleased to present to you the final report and recommendations from the event.
k you for the opportu-warmly
welcomed by
the small business c eceived from your
nd Senate. The
We look forward
Joseph T. Dean
Chairman
A R I Z O N A D E P A R T M E N T O F C O M M E R C E
3800 NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE SUITE 1650 PHOENIX, AZ 85012 602.280.1476 TDD 602.280.1 301
FAX 602.280.1339 WEB SITE http://www.state.az.us/commerce
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
1221 East Osborn Road Suite 100 Phoenix, Arizona 85014
President and CEO
January 2 1, 1998
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce was a proud sponsor of the 1997 Governor's Conference on
Small Business. Overall, the Conference was an effective means for delivering the concerns of
Arizona's small business owners and operators to the leaders of our state. Before the
Conference, we sent out surveys to various small businesses to learn what they believed were the
most important issues confronting their businesses.
During the Conference, legislators, regulators and small business owners participated in panel
discussions on regulatory reform, quality of life issues, workforce development and taxation.
Those panel discussions produced invaluable recommendations, included in this book, that will
help guide our public policy agenda for the years to come.
The Arizona Chamber understands the unique concerns and perspective of Arizona's small
businesses on cumbersome regulation and on burdensome taxes. We are committed to providing
a better climate for small business development and expansion that will help make Arizona a
better place to live and work.
Sincerely,
Tim Lawless
President and CEO
Phone (602) 248-9172 FAX (602) 265-1262
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The quadrennial Arizona Governor's Conference on Small Business was held on Friday,
October 31, 1997, at the Phoenix Civic Plaza. The conference was attended by small business
owners, representatives of small business organizations, legislators, exhibitors and government
agency representatives.
The goal of the conference was to seek concerns of the small business community which could
be addressed by state government. This was accomplished. However, the overall success of
the conference is questionable.
Unfortunately, the planned final vote to prioritize the lists of concerns from each of the breakout
sessions, did not take place until after 5:00 p.m. Only 33 voting delegates remained to cast
ballots. The results of the votes are in the section titled "General Recommendations."
This lack of representative voting skewed the final prioritization results. Recommendations are
being made to prevent such an eventuality at future conferences.
A pre-conference survey distributed to several thousand small business owners received 628
responses. The results of this survey indicated considerably different concerns. The survey
follows the Governor's Address.
The survey of businesses was used to establish the agenda for the conference. The topics
chosen -taxes, regulatory reform, quality of life and workforce development - reflect the issues
most clearly identified by the survey.
Excellent recommendations have been made for all of these areas. The items listed clearly
reflect small business concerns. The order in which they have been ranked regarding priority,
however, is somewhat invalid.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS
I'd like to begin by congratulating our conferees for their past successes, including the
establishment of the Small Business Advocate office headed by Joe Dean, the Business Health
Insurance Group within AHCCCS, the one-stop small business center at the Arizona Department
of Commerce, and the $50,000 personal property tax exemption. That's a lot of progress, and I
intend to see that it continues.
Small businesses are one of the unsung heroes of our economy. Your happiness is everyone's
happiness. You ask for lower income taxes, you get them. You ask for more property tax
exemptions, you get them. When I was Speaker of the House, you asked for a trained workforce,
so I sponsored the state job training program.
Why is promoting small business so important to me? Because it works.
That's why Arizona recognizes the importance of small business. Arizona has more than 400,000
businesses, 99.5% of which are small, with fewer than 100 employees or under $4 million in
annual revenue.
In fact, 41% of Arizona businesses are women-owned. Of the 200 calls the Arizona Business
Connection gets every day, 60% to 70% are from minorities or women. That's a significant figure,
because the U.S. Small Business Administration tells us that the greatest growth in small
businesses comes from Hispanic women.
We all know that Arizona has been one of the fastest growing, most dynamic economies in the
U.S. over the past 3 decades. After a severe economic recession from 1987 to 1992 that was
concentrated in our real estate and construction industries, Arizona is once again "setting the
pace".
It's tempting to recite a litany of impressive statistics regarding Arizona's performance over the
past few years, but I will resist the temptation and focus instead on the challenges we must
overcome.
Given how depressed Arizona's economy was in the late 80's and early go's, we should be both
grateful and pleased with what we have accomplished since then:
Financial World magazine has rated our state financial position and budgeting practices as 91h
best of the 50 states.
Moody's Investor Services just upgraded our bond rating to A+.
Our combined general fund and budget stabilization fund balances total nearly $900 million.
This is all good news. However, the renewed vigor of the Arizona economy and our strong cash
flow should not obscure some persistent and nagging problems that need our immediate attention.
Although job gains are strong and inflation is low, our per capita income continues to lag well
behind the national average.
Although Arizonans are better educated than the nation as a whole, we are concerned about
the quality of education in our children's classrooms.
Although most Arizonans came here seeking our sun-splashed, wide desert vistas, we find
ourselves facing tough choices related to the quality of life that drew us here in the first place.
So while we should congratulate ourselves for what we have done, we should understand that
despite our recent record of accomplishment, the toughest choices may be immediately ahead.
Now that we have "righted the ship" and laid a firm financial foundation, we must "chart the course"
for our future travels. There are several stubborn problems that have bedeviled state government
and caused concern for our citizens for far too long.
As Governor, my policies will address these chronic problems squarely and forthrightly. I intend to
use my office to bring Arizonans together to:
Build a high quality public education system.
Nurture and attract high paying jobs throughout the state, and
Retain and improve upon the quality of life in Arizona.
While we will continue to cut taxes as we have for 5 straight years under Republican Leadership, I
intend to do so in a way that keeps our tax structure balanced and fair. Generally, I believe that
the base of any tax should be kept broad, so that tax rates can be kept low. Furthermore, we
should keep an eye on neighboring states and make sure that our tax structure is not an
impediment to economic development. Unfortunately, in a number of respects our tax structure is
unbalanced and anti-competitive. However, my tax cut proposal will address these shortcomings.
Capital investment is critical to productivity gains and the creation of high-paying jobs. My tax
policies will encourage, not discourage, investment in new plant and equipment.
Another key ingredient for a robust economy is a high quality and available labor supply. As
Governor:
I intend to refocus our attention on the classrooms of Arizona's public schools, so that new
education dollars reach the classrooms for the benefit of our children.
I will propose an increase in funding for job training and workforce development in order to help
steer our non higher-education-bound high school graduates into well-paying technical or
vocational jobs.
I will also seek to strengthen the links between our university and community college systems
and Arizona industries.
These are significant goals for a new administration. They are also realistic. Arizonans rightfully
expect their state government to provide quality services and to solve the problems that are the
responsibility of the state. Furthermore, Arizonans expect an ethical state government with a high
degree of integrity. I will be addressing these concerns by focusing on reforms that empower state
employees and sufficiently reward them for meritorious work.
In conclusion, while I am pro-business, I do not wish to favor either small or big business at the
expense of the other. I understand each kind of business is unique.
After all, most small businesses dream of becoming a big business someday.
Governor's Conference on Small Business Printed: 111 3198
Advance Survey of Businesses
Surveyed: 990
Responses: 365
Response Rate: 36.87%
Ah!! ATizona Small Business Associalion
Fax Survey 8 Results conducted by ADR International, Inc. Fax Services, August 1997. Phone 602-277-1200.
I. Demographic Information
Percent of Responses
How many people does your
company currently employ?
Which county is your company based?
Apache 0 0.00% Mohave 3 0.82%
Cochise 0 0.00% Navajo 2 0.55%
Coconino 7 1.92% Pina 15 4.11%
Gila 0 0.00% Pinal 4 1.10%
Graham 1 0.27% Santa Cruz 1 0.27%
Greenlee 0 0.00% Yavapai 12 3.29%
La Paz 1 0.27% Yuma 3 0.82%
Maricopa 312 85.48%
II. Small Business Issues
Select the five most important
issues affecting your small
business today.
Percent of Total Selections
Crime 150
Welfare Reform 65
Health Care 233
Population Growth 109
Taxes 289
Environment 117
Government Spending 173
Transportation 124
Regulatory Reform 144
Education 1 28
Electric Utility 46
Deregulation
Total Selections 1578
Ill. Taxes
The 1997 Arizona Legislature
and Governor cut taxes by
over $100 million. If there is to
be another reduction in 1998, which
tax would you prefer to be cut?
Percent of Total Selections
IV. Quality of Life Do you feel Arizona's air is,
365 Total Selections
Clean Somewhat Clean Somewhat Polluted Very Polluted
18 4.93% 75 20.55% 152 41 .64% 120 32.88%
Auto License
Business Personal Prop.
R.E. Commercial Property tax
R.E. Residental Property tax
Corporate Income Tax
Personal Income Tax
Sales Tax
Other
Total Selections 397
Not Sure
0 0.00%
V. Health Care Do you provide Health Insurance for your employees?
362 Total Selections
Yes 259 71.55% No 103 28.45%
VI. Workers' Compensation Would you be in favor of legislation that limits court discretion in
in determining which employee activities are eligible for workers' compensation benefit coverage?
336 Total Selections
Yes 236 70.24% No 100 29.76%
VII. Workforce Development
What is the work readiness of recent potential employees you have interviewed?
361 Total Selections
Satisfactory Adequate Poor Not Applicable
25 6.93% 129 35.73% 170 47.09% 37 10.25%
Would you be willing to have more emphasis placed on skill or vocational training in the community colleges?
352 Total Selections
Yes 307 87.22% No 45 12.78%
Do you currently offer child care benefits to attract and retain employees?
352 Total Selections
Yes 13 3.69% No 339 96.31%
Would you offer child care benefits if your company was given a tax credit?
333 Total Selections
Yes 141 42.34% No 192 57.66%
TAXES
MODERATOR
Tim Lawless
PANELISTS
Sandra Abalos
Marty Alvarez
Rep. Ken Cheuvront
Rep. Dean Cooley
Rep. Lori Daniels
Pat Derdenger
Chris Edmonson
Ira Feldman
Rep. Mike Gardner
Rep. Mike Gleason
Sen. Randall Gnant
Dan Lucas
Kevin McCarthy
Rep. Jean McGrath
Sen. Tom Patterson
Rep. Robin Shaw
Marquetta White
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The Governor and State Legislature of Arizona have based economic strategy on the
philosophy that lower rates of taxation will result in an increasingly vital economy. Arizona's
personal income tax rate has been cut several times during the last few years.
Lowering the personal income tax rate has played a vital role in establishing Arizona's friendly
climate for small business. The vast majority of small businesses in Arizona are sole
proprietorships, partnerships, Subchapter S Corporations and Limited Liability Companies and,
as such, do not have a business income tax.
Governor Hull plans to continue the attack on state taxes. At this conference small business
owners will jointly voice their opinions on where future tax reductions should occur.
If state taxes were to be cut next year, what areas would you prefer to have affected? Would
you like to see further reductions in personal income tax? Or would you prefer cuts in business
personal property tax, real property tax, corporate income tax, transaction privilege (sales) tax
or even auto license fees? Would you like to have a reduction in state spending tied to tax
reductions?
Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to share your views with legislators and other
experts on the critical subject of TAXES.
REGULATORY
REFORM
MODERATOR
Richard Bark
PANELISTS
Mary Lou Bessette
Truman Brandt
Sen. Brenda Burns
Rep. Dean Cooley
Michelle Crank
Rep. Mike Gardner
Knox Kimberley
Rep. Laura Knaperek
Rep. Jean McGrath
Gus Miller
Sen. Tom Patterson
Sen. Gary Richardson
Rep. Christine Weason
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Of all the Arizona Legislature's accomplishments to date, those dealing with regulatory reform
have proven to be among the greatest in significance to the small business owner.
The Taxpayers' Bill of Rights stands out as a major achievement in Arizona. This extraordinary
piece of legislation is recognized as one of the nation's leading programs to assist taxpayers.
The Taxpayers' Bill of Rights clearly defines and protects Arizona residents' general rights as
taxpayers and establishes procedures for dealing with the Department of Revenue regarding
income and other taxes.
Some of the provisions of the legislation are:
creation of the Taxpayer Assistance Office to protect against unfair treatment of taxpayers
publication of private taxpayer rulings 30 days after issue to help prevent over- or under-payment
of taxes due to lack of clarity in tax laws
refinement of a formal appeals process
provision for Taxpayer Assistance Orders which temporarily stop action against a taxpayer
while issues are being investigated
Small business owners benefited significantly from other reform legislation which changed the
way fines and penalties are handled by regulatory agencies. The majority of agencies imposing
the fines and penalties no longer receive the resulting payments; instead, monies are credited
to the state's general fund. In addition, the hearing officers who preside over most regulatory
cases now report to a centralized office rather than to the agencies themselves.
This year's conferees will continue to identify and weigh regulatory practices which
impact the small business owner, seeking to reduce burdensome regulations and
practices while maintaining an exemplary business environment.
QUALITY
OF
LIFE
MODERATOR
Jim Apperson
PANELISTS
Rep. Dean Cooley
Sen. Chris Cummiskey
R. George Dean
Sen. Randall Gnant
Margaret Dunn Hodge
Rep. Marilyn Jarrett
Rep. Jean McGrath
Marc Osborn
Sen. David Peterson
Sandra Rembrandt
Frank Rivera
George Russell
Fran Smith
Christine Gibbs Springer
Melissa Taylor
Rep. Christine Weason
Greg Workman
Nancy Wrona
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Arizona's escalating growth rate is clear evidence of its outstanding quality of life. There are,
however, areas which would benefit by improvement.
As residents, small business owners have a deep concern for the well-being of our community.
During the Quality of Life session, we will prioritize those concerns. The Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality is not only a regulatory body, but also a partner in the progress of our
state. In working together with ADEQ we can establish manageable policies which maintain
the optimum balance of industry and environmental integrity.
ADEQ, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), and the Legislature will partner again
this year to continue their efforts to improve air quality in Metro Phoenix. All three pollutants -
particulates, carbon monoxide and ozone - will continue to be addressed in an ongoing effort to
upgrade Maricopa County's air quality to federal Clean Air Act Standards.
Cleanup and leakage control of underground storage tanks present significant financial
problems. The State Assurance Fund was created to assist with these costs. Systems are
currently being researched to improve the manner in which claims are processed and financed,
and to create reasonable oversight mechanisms.
Better systems for transportation are being investigated.. The State of Arizona's landscape is
highly diverse. A few of its metropolitan areas, particularly the immense Phoenix metro area,
suffer from excessive congestion in rush hour. Can this be eased utilizing the systems in
progress or are alternatives required? A discussion of Arizona's options for traffic relief will
explore how transportation issues affect small business.
The crime factor is a cause for worry, ranging from minor issues to violent crime Although
violent crime remains the greater concern as a whole, such issues as graffiti are becoming
more and more difficult for the small business owner to deal with. Methods for prevention of
this and other forms of vandalism will be explored.
WORKFORCE PANELISTS
DEVELOPMENT C. Diane Bishop
Jim Cox
MODERATOR
Tom Gunn
Sen. Chris Cummiskey
Stan Grossman
Sen. John Huppenthal
Rep. Karen Johnson
Rep. Laura Knaperek
Art Othon
Sen. David Peterson
Patricia Ross
Richard Schulte
Rep. Barry Wong
Harold Wong, Ph.D.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The quality of our workforce is of prime concern to all of Arizona's small business owners.
Those hiring new employees often find very few applicants who are appropriately skilled for
even entry level positions. Is there anything the small business community can do to change
this?
Workforce development has become the object of intense assessment and restructuring. The
recently formed School-to-Work program has been made a division within the Arizona
Department of Commerce, positioning it as an economic development activity. Through this
office the classroom is linked with the ten areas, or clusters, targeted for integrated
development by the Governor's Strategic Partnership for Economic Development (GSPED).
These clusters are:
bioindustry
environmental technology
food, fiber and natural products
high-tech industry
minerals & mining
optics
senior living
software
tourism & experience
transportation & distribution
School-to-Work enables future employees to see the abundance of careers available for both
technically and academically oriented students. Participants in the program observe such
subjects as algebra and physics being applied in the workplace, thereby encouraging a sound
foundation in these and other basic studies. Thus, they are able to learn what is available and
establish educational paths, technical or academic, that will result in real jobs.
Opportunities for the small business owner to take part in School-to-Work programs, such as
shadowing, internships, co-ops, and apprenticeships, will be explored at this informative
session.
In addition to work readiness issues, such vital topics as health care and child care will be
discussed. We will examine employee benefits such as the latest in workers' compensation.
Is a subtle shift of power on the horizon? Will the Industrial Commission have a greater voice in
decisions presently made by the courts?
Hear the experts - voice your opinion - regarding workforce issues.
1 997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM BREAKOUT SESSIONS
These recommendations represent the concerns of those attending the individual
breakout sessions. The findings have been prioritized according to the number of votes
received at the end of each session. Only the top priorities have been listed.
The individual rankings in this list do not necessarily correspond to the rankings of the
General Session, where voters may have assigned issues different priority rankings from
those determined in the breakout sessions.
SESSION 1 TAXES
1. Corporate income taxes should be reduced.
2. Eliminate the business personal property tax.
3. Eliminate property tax as the funding source for education and identify another source.
4. Find solution to school district funding issue.
5. Retirement communities should pay school district taxes.
6. Make collection of taxes and penalties less arbitrary and onerous.
SESSION TWO REGULATORY REFORM
1. The state should conduct a small business equity study to include women, minorities and
small business.
2. Reduce regulatory costs for small business and create a business-friendly compliance
process with an assumption of innocence (procedural safeguards).
3. Equalize benefits and opportunities for small business as compared to those afforded large
businesses.
4. Establish legislation to permit small businesses to have aggregation for determining utility
rates.
5. Place states' rights before federal government mandates.
SESSION THREE QUALITY OF LIFE
1. Institute judicial reform to eliminate frivolous lawsuits.
2. Use the state surplus to develop freeways and transportation systems.
3. Establish public/private partnerships for transportation.
4. Enhance crime prevention efforts.
5. Establish a mechanism to ensure that subcontractors are paid at the same time contractors
are paid by state agencies.
SESSION FOUR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
1. Consolidate the 28 different federal and state grants for "school to work" and job training
into one master pool.
2. Provide funds to support alternative training opportunities such as co-ops, internships from
grade school through community college.
3. Provide incentives directly to small businesses that provide job training opportunities.
4. Provide a directory of available public and private post secondary skill resources.
5. Improve literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
These recommendations are from the General Session. There was not any discussion of
these topics at the General Session; the vote was for prioritization purposes only.
1. The state should conduct a small business equity study to include women, minorities and
small business.
2. Institute judicial reform to eliminate frivolous lawsuits.
3. Corporate income taxes should be reduced.
4. Eliminate the business personal property tax.
5. Provide alternative training opportunities, such as co-ops and apprenticeships from K-3
through community colleges.
6. Establish a mechanism to ensure that subcontractors are paid when general contractors are
paid by state agencies.
7. Reduce regulatory costs for small business and create a business-friendly compliance
process with an assumption of innocence (procedural safeguards).
8. Use the state budget surplus to develop freeways and transportation systems.
9. Equalize benefits and opportunities for small business as compared to those afforded large
businesses.
10. Establish publiclprivate partnerships for public transportation.
11. Provide incentives directly to small businesses that provide job training programs.
12. Establish one locally controlled pool of federal and state funds for job training and
consolidate the various programs.
13. Establish legislation to permit small businesses to have aggregation for determining utility
rates.
14. Retirement communities should pay school district taxes.
15. Place states' rights before federal government's mandates.
16. Improve literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade.
17. Enhance crime prevention efforts.
18. Eliminate taxes for small businesses in the start-up years.
19. Create a mechanism for supporting and reviewing concerns of seniors, including employee
background checks and minimum employment standards.
20. Include social values in school education.
21. Reduce complexity of regulatory language.
22. Provide incentives for telecommuting and establishing of at-home offices.
23. Eliminate property tax as the funding source for education and identify another source.
24. Find solution to school district funding issue.
25. Do very long-range planning with benchmarks and link public and private training programs
to state-identified industry clusters.
26. Resolve conflicts among federal, state, county and city agencies.
27. Make collection of taxes and penalties less arbitrary and onerous.
28. Make all city sales taxes uniform.
29. Fund traffic controls and flow to reduce pollution and time.
30. Enhance residential planning and emphasize infill.
31. Centralize the collection of child-support payments.
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
STEERING COMMITTEE
Joseph T. Dean, Chairman Bruce Fox
Arizona Small Business Advocate Fox & Fin Financial
Wayne Anderson
Americare Employers Group
Jim Apperson
Maricopa Community Colleges
Todd Ban kofier
Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
Malcolm Barrett
Flame, Inc.
Mary Lou Bessette
Bessette & Company
Cheryl Boone
Southwest Gas Corporation
Ann Chase
City of Phoenix
Melissa Collins
State Farm Insurance
Sarah A. Cowgill
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Gregg Edgar
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Samantha Fearn
National Federation of Independent
Business
Gail Gessell
U.S. Small Business Administration
Jaime Gibbons
J.G. Appraisers, Brokers & Consultants
LTD
Rick Gonzales
Xerox Corporation
Tom Gunn
Arizona Small Business Association
Peter Hayes
Salt River Project
Kevin J. Healy
Arizona Employers Council Inc.
David R. Hume
Hume & Company
Gordon C. James
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Susan Jones
Drugs Don't Work in Arizona
Eleanore Klein
Today's Arizona Woman Success
Magazine
Valerie Krislibas
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Tim Lawless
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Brian McAnallen
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Pat McCallister
ClGNA Healthcare of Arizona
Midge Munro
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Helen H. Neuharth
Greater Casa Grande
Chamber of Commerce
Farrell Quinlan
Arizona Chamber of Commerce
Michelle Pierson
City of Tucson
Dean Rennell
Wells Fargo
Donald E. Ruff
Bank One Arizona, NA
Carl Schmieder
Schmieder & Son, Jewelers
Ginny Sparks
Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona
Bill Stack
US West Communications
Sue Stoll
Lucent Technologies
Patricia A. Vamos
Gordon C. James Public Relations
Wendy Wheeler
Cellular ONE
Michael N. York
AZ Small Business Development Center
Network
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
SPONSORS
1. AmeriCare
2. Arizona Chamber of Commerce
3. Arizona Department of Commerce - Arizona Business Connection
4. Arizona Public Service
5. BankOne
6. BlueCross/BlueShield of Arizona
7. Cellular One
8. CIGNA Healthcare
9. KFNN 151 0 AM Financial Newsradio
10. MicroAge
1 1 .The Business Journal
12. The Tribune
13. Today's Arizona Woman Success Magazine
14.US West
15.XEROX
1997
GOVERNOR'S CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS
FINAL REPORT
EXHIBITORS
Arizona Department of Environmental
Quality Citywide Cellular
Arizona Department of Revenue CK Event Enterprises
Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, Inc. Commercial Blueprint
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Computer One Training
Arizona Small Business Association Crisis Preparation and Recovery
Arizona Small Business Development CRM Computer Consulting
Center
Dean Witter
ASU FastTrac: Growing Your Small
Business Disel USA
AzTech Recruitment Company Easel Photography, Inc.
Bank of Arizona Educational Seminars of Scottsdale
Bank One Eglin Photographic Productions
Benefit Logic, Inc. Elan Travel
BLS Communications Environmental Training Center
Blue CrossIBlue Shield of AZ Fiddlesticks
Business Development Finance Corporation Fox & Fin Financial Group, L.C.
Cardservice International Freeway Partners
Cellular ONE Fringe Benefit Consultants, Inc.
ClGNA Healthcare of Arizona Future Trends Technology Mgmt.
City of Phoenix - Community & Economic Gordon C. James Public Relations
Development
Hansen Lightworks Inc.
City of Phoenix - Equal Opportunity Homestead Village
Department
Humdinger Goodies & Treats
City of Phoenix - Phoenix One Stop
Impulse Data
Industry Network Corporation
Insight
Intelligent Solutions
International Counterintelligence Services
Inc.
Jewish News of Greater Phoenix
JSC & Associates
KFNN
LAN Computer Services
Maricopa County Employment & Training
MBI Occupational Healthcare
Mercy Healthcare Group
MERIT Research Services
Merrill Lynch
MicroAge
Mountain Valley Ventures, Inc.
Mutual of New York
NASE
National Center for American Indian
NAW BO
Network Infrastructure Corporation
New York Life
PDS Technical Services
Phillips & Altman Consulting
Phoenix Airport Hilton
Primesource Technologies LLC
Rocket Litho
Sharpe Equipment Leasing
Small Business Consultants Group LTD.
Southwest Financial Planning Corporation
Southwest Gas Corporation
Southwestern Business Financing
Corporation
SRT Administrators, Inc.
S.P.I.E.S.
Teleguia En Espaiiol
The Business Journal
The Prudential
The Tribune
Toback CPA's P.C.
Today's Arizona Woman
Two Feathers Gallery
United Vanguard Homes Inc.
USWest
U.S. Postal Service
Valley Bank of Arizona
Wells Fargo Bank
Worldwide Sales & Marketing
XEROX
Premier Healthcare of Arizona